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An exciting new sound and laser show will be developed for Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village (FHMV).

Warrnambool City Council (WCC) this week appointed a multimedia company to produce a new sound and laser show to replace the existing show that has been a popular FHMV drawcard for more than a decade.

Upgrades will also be made to enhance the experience of day visitors to Flagstaff Hill.

The new production has been made possible with Regional Development Victoria funding of $1.95 million.

“This is an important step in the redevelopment of Flagstaff Hill,” WCC Mayor Cr Kylie Gaston said.

“Already we have seen the consolidation of the Visitor Information Centre and the Flaggy Hill reception which provides an improved experience for visitors.

“The new sound and laser show will use the latest technology and will cover not only our maritime history but introduce stories about Western Victoria’s volcanic plains and our significant indigenous heritage.”

The company appointed to produce the show, Acumen Design, has been involved in similar projects for the Perth Mint, the Defence of Darwin project, Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, NRL Museum, Newcastle Maritime Museum, and White Night Melbourne.

WCC Tourism Services Manager Peter Abbott said there would be an increase in the number and variety of shows offered.

“At the end of the project we’ll be able to provide more activation of the village during the day along with a continuation of night shows which have been an integral part of Flaggy Hill’s operations and a major generator of overnight stays for the city’s visitor economy,” Mr Abbott said.

“We expect the new sound and laser shows to be finished by early next year.

“Other changes at the village include the restoration of a couta boat, the Viator, and the cargo boat Reginald M, which has been a Flaggy feature since 1975.

“There will also be a new shed for boat builders to operate from and improved access to the village.”

Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford said Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village was “another shining example of the types of outstanding tourist attractions regional Victoria has to offer”.

“The new sound and light show will encourage visitors to stay overnight in Warnambool and that’s a real win for the town and the region, as the economic benefits will flow on to other local businesses,” Ms Pulford said.

“Through our current tourism campaign, The Victorian Government is encouraging Melbournians to get out of town, wander Victoria and see the best of everything.

“We’re getting on with delivering our commitments under the Regional Statement to develop tangible projects and support investment opportunities that will grow the visitor economy across regional Victoria.”